From the Desk of the President

Dear Vets,

I have almost returned from a period of forced 'leave of absence' (see below) to find the winter season has commenced with a few 'wrinkles' which we will endeavour to sort out.

'Wrinkles'

Unfortunately one of these wrinkles was the cancellation of last weekends race. These situations present a bit of a challenge for us. On an earlier occasion for a race at this venue, we had local authority approval for the race, albeit it came through quite late which did not give us enough time to letter-box drop local residents which is a requirement with the police. This time however, we advised local residents, anticipating local authority approval, but it did not come through in time (gurr!).

Hopefully things will go more smoothly for us and Vets members will be able to enjoy the challenges of competing in our winter race program at ACT and NSW venues.

Anzac Day event

We had some small feedback about our decision to schedule a race on this day. The Committee decided to proceed based on the prevailing community acceptance of sporting events taking place on this day, especially in the afternoon. We will pay our respects to the fallen and suffering veterans prior to the race.

My 'leave of absence'

Many might be aware that I suffered a serious bike crash (all my own work) while on a training ride in mid February. Despite my serious injuries, I was skilfully supported by my training buddies - all ACT Vets members and some with first aid quals. This really made a big difference to my survival. After some two months of treatment and surgery at Canberra hospital, I made it home this weekend to the love and comforts of home where I will continue to fully recover. It affirms the importance of wearing a good quality helmet, training with buddies and having some of these with first aid experience.

We will look to ensure we sponsor club members attending First aid courses. It could be a life saver for some of us.

To finish on a positive note, I look forward to attending the winter season road races to observe (initially) some of the best, well managed, safe and friendly bike racing you will get in Australia. It's important for members to support this aspect of our race program, after all, it's what bike racing is all about!

CheersAlex O'SheaACTVCC President

Getting ready for Gunning

Less than 4 weeks to go before the Gunning Two Day event so if you are planning to race, better make sure you are in training.

If you aren't planning to race, we are on the lookout for Marshals and helpers to make the event a success. please let Bill Frostbillfrost@bigpond.comknow if you can assist.

Interstate Events

• Battle on the Border- Thursday 28 May to Sunday 31 MayIn its short seven year history, the Battle on the Border has become one of the highly sought after cycling festivals in Australia and the largest tour on the Eastern Seaboard.Online registrationhereEnquiries tooffice@battleontheborder.com.au

RACING THIS WEEK:

Saturday, 25th April: Dairy Flat Criterium

Saturday’s Race will be held on Anzac Day. While the club recognises that this is a day of great significance, it is also a day that we celebrate the freedoms that generations of Australians have fought for.

A minute’s silence will be observed at the commencement of each race to pay respects to the fallen and to give thanks for the freedom that we now enjoy.

Note:Members who are planning to ride to Dairy Rd should also be aware that the section along the Lake foreshore near Anzac Parade may still have significant pedestrian traffic and should exercise care.

RACE REPORT:

Old Federal Highway – 18th April

Unfortunately the Race Committee were unable to secure the required NSW Police approvals for the Old Federal Highway race at Shingle Hill. Approvals were sought many weeks ago, but the speed of the process is outside of our control.